ICRC and Philippine Red Cross appeal to abductors' sense of humanity

Manila / Geneva (ICRC) – The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has taken note of direct threats made by those responsible for the abduction of ICRC staff members Mary Jean Lacaba, Eugenio Vagni and Andreas Notter on 15 January 2009 and are extremely worried about the three persons' safety.

The ICRC and the Philippine National Red Cross remain in constant contact with the authorities concerned to discuss urgent measures necessary to resolve this crisis.

The ICRC and the Philippine National Red Cross are also appealing to the abductors' sense of humanity and asking them to avoid taking any action that could endanger the lives of Mary Jean, Eugenio and Andreas. They are renewing their call for the immediate and unconditional release of the three ICRC staff members.